Raise a Glass to Microbrews

Aug 22, 2016

Looking for a fun day out this fall? Grab some friends, nominate a designated driver, and hit the road for a day of touring and tasting at six amazing craft breweries in Hamilton Halton Brant. In addition to great beer, you’ll get to experience a sensational six-pack of communities, each with their own unique vibe. Ask the staff at the breweries you visit for dining and shopping recommendations and they’ll be thrilled to help you round out your itinerary into an incredibly happy (and hoppy) day!

Milton’s only craft brewery is owned and operated by two friends who have turned their passion for home brewing into a booming little business. Drop by and visit these energetic young brewers from Wednesday through Sunday.

Must-taste brew: Rattle ‘n’ Nemo Amber Ale

This easy-drinking amber ale that is named after two of the city’s most beloved Niagara Escarpment cliffs has already taken home an Ontario Brewing Award.

Cameron’s Brewing Company has been creating delicious craft brews since 1997. Tours are offered on Saturday afternoons and can be booked in advance by calling 905.849.8282. Check their online event calendar and time your visit with one of the brewery’s Cask Nights and enjoy great beer, light fare, music and a special cask.

Must-taste brew: Seasonal Oak-aged Series

Carefully aged in bourbon, rum, cognac and whiskey barrels, these unique craft brews are made in very limited quantities and will make a tasty addition to any beer aficionado’s bucket list.

While you’re in town: Stroll the streets of Downtown Oakville and explore the unique retailers for one-of-a-kind finds.

Who says kids can’t enjoy a craft brewery tour? Certainly not Nickel Brook! All ages are welcome on their free brewery tour and those under 19 years of age can enjoy a free sample of Babbling Brook Root Beer! Book your tour by calling (905) 681-BREW (2739) or emailing them.

Must-taste brew: Raspberry Uber Berliner Weisse

This sour-style wheat beer has been aged on local raspberries and the result is a very berry flavour explosion that’s truly one-of-a-kind.

While you’re in town: Even if you don’t have a green thumb, exploring the trails and gardens at Royal Botanical Gardens is a fun way to get some fresh air. Be sure to check out the International Sculpture Collection in Hendrie Park.

A brewery inside a former curling and skating rink? It doesn’t get much more Canadian than that! This brewery is overflowing with history and personality.

Must-taste brew: Barrelshed No.1

If you love wine as much as beer, this craft brew is for you. Gently aged in wine barrels to produce a unique flavour, this brew has a deep amber, almost ruby colour and flavours of pine, citrus rind and nectarine.

While you’re in town: Check out the great shops of Dundas and stop for a bite to eat. Detour Coffee Roaster’s Café is a delicious option for a casual brunch or lunch.

Creative spirits won’t want to miss a visit to Collective Arts, where craft beer is fused with the talents of emerging artists, musicians and filmmakers. Each beer is a work of art on the inside and out. In addition to featuring visual art on the label, scanning the label with a smart phone using the Blippar app unlocks music and videos by featured bands and filmmakers. Brewery tours are offered on Saturday afternoons and the store and taproom are open daily. The onsite Collective Arts Gallery features all the artists and musicians who have been on the labels since the brewery’s launch in 2013.

Must-taste brew: Ransack the Universe India Pale Ale

This hemispheric hop mashup features Galaxy hops from Australia and Mosaic hops from Washington. The aromas and flavours of tropical fruits, mango and citrus are out of this world.

While you’re in town: If the labels at Collective Arts leave you wanting more, swing by the Art Gallery of Hamilton. It’s the oldest and largest public art gallery in southwestern Ontario and has one of the finest collections of art in Canada, featuring over 10,000 works of art including historical European, historical Canadian and contemporary art. Then, stop for a bite at one of the seven buzzed about restaurants that belong to The Other Bird’s culinary portfolio. Whether you choose Rapscallion Rogue Eatery, The Alex, Two Black Sheep, Black Sheep Snack Bar, Except For Kenneth, The Mule or the Arlington Hotel, you’re in for a memorable and delicious dining experience.

This friendly little brewery will be happy to pour you a taste of their brews in their Tap Room. You’ll also find seasonal selections and creative one-off brews that in the past have included unique flavours combinations like a chocolate and orange porter and a Habanero chili lager.

Must-taste brew: Galaxy Hopper, Session IPA

Taste the beer that’s become a favourite with Brantford locals. Made with a blend of four different hops, this is an easy sipper that stands out from the crowd.

While you’re in town: Time your visit so you can wrap up your day of tasting and touring with a concert at the Sanderson Centre for the Performing Arts. This fall’s lineup includes Matt Dusk, Blue Rodeo and Burton Cummings.